August 14, 2012 – Shipwreck Log

The 67 meter long self-propelled barge Heike W caught fire on the Osnabrück Canal while at Osnabrück, Germany. The fire started in the engine room when a diesel generator overheated. The crew was able to extinguish the blaze with the local fire brigade assisting. No reports of injuries or pollution released. Damage was reported to be an estimated 100.000 € including a replacement generator. The water police has launched an investigation into the incident.

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Katja

August 14, 2012 Paul Hancock

The 232 meter long, 97220 dwt VLCC tanker Katja went aground in the North Sea off the island of Minsener Oog near Wangerooge, Germany. The tanker suffered a slight list while stuck on the sandbank, but no water ingress. Four tugs responded along with an anti pollution vessel to the scene. The tugs were able to refloat the Katja a few hours later with the rising tide. The vessels then proceeded to Wilhelmshaven where the Katja berthed where it unloaded its cargo of 87,000 tons of crude oil. The tanker will undergo an inspection looking for any possible damage. No reports of injuries or pollution being released. The authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.